The Chairman of Koko-Besse Local Government Area in Kebbi State, Hon. Sirajo Usman Dan Gwaggo, has provided mobility aids and financial support to dozens of persons living with disabilities as part of efforts to promote inclusion and economic self-reliance.
The distribution, carried out in partnership with the Jos-based NGO Beautiful Gate Handicapped People Centre, took place at the council secretariat and benefited 75 residents drawn from the 12 wards of the local government.
Speaking during the presentation, Gwaggo said the initiative was meant to improve mobility, restore dignity and strengthen the beneficiaries’ sense of belonging in society.
“This support is to remind you that government belongs to everyone. We want you to feel included and empowered to improve your lives,” he said.
In addition to the wheelchairs, each beneficiary received ₦5,000 to assist with small trading or other income-generating ventures.
The council chairman urged recipients to use the assistance wisely and assured them that the local government would continue to prioritise vulnerable groups.
A representative of the NGO, Sandra Yilgwan, praised the council for what she described as a compassionate intervention that could positively impact many families.
“Programs like this show that collaboration between government and civil society can truly change lives. What matters now is how effectively the beneficiaries make use of the support,” she noted.
The exercise reflects increasing cooperation between local authorities and humanitarian organisations to address the welfare needs of persons living with disabilities and improve social protection at the grassroots level.
